Diving into the Compact Electric: BYD Dolphin - A European Test
Compact-sized BYD Dolphin undergoing examination
By Patrick Broich
Confused about the array of models from BYD? You're not alone! Just recently, BYD released the Dolphin 'Surf' for the European market, but don't confuse it with the original Dolphin model. This review focuses on the latter, which is a whole different fish in the sea.
Currently, BYD provides either a simple or complex buying experience, depending on which model you're interested in. They deliver decent products at reasonable prices, and while they're still learning, it's an exciting time for potential customers. That said, an early BYD purchase may come with a dash of that distinctive Chinese charm, while newer models appeal more to European tastes.
The Writing on the (Car) Wall
BYD's Pioneering Step - Cars Charging as Quick as Refueling by 2030In a thrilling industry development, BYD plans to make EV charging as fast as refueling by 2030. The automotive world better buckle up for this revolutionary change!
The original BYD Dolphin appears more conservative in design, with less excitement than the flashier Surf model. However, the larger version is quite functional, with a height of 1.57 meters and resembling a compact car, not an SUV. That said, it's not exactly a head-turner. But let's move on to its interior.
Inside the Dolphin: A Room with a View (and More Buttons)
Upon entering, you'll notice the interior design is a hit or miss. While the massive, milled metal block-like console and buttons look trendy, the quality of implementation leaves something to be desired. The seats are quite decent, considering the compact car space, but the BYD website needs improvement. The configurator will ask you to shell out 32,990 euros, which is a shock.
But fear not! Compared to the relatively pricier Volkswagen ID.3, the Dolphin packs a punch with 204 horsepower. However, it's worth noting that there are frugally-powered variants with less engine power and 45 kWh battery capacity available[1]. The brochure doesn't mention these options, though, so be sure to do some digging.
Range Anxiety: Cold Weather Woes
Electric vehicle enthusiasts might be disappointed to learn that the claimed range of the Dolphin is significantly reduced in cold weather. While 300 kilometers of range is promised with 90% charge, tight-knit roads will see the car seeking a charge after just 250 kilometers. Charging times are quoted accurately, taking 40 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent.
The they're-a-quick-charger-but-not-quite-fast-enough verdict.
Drive Experience: Power and Perks
Despite its quirks, the Dolphin handles well with quick acceleration thanks to its 204 horses, propelling the 1.7-ton car from 0 to 100 km/h in seven seconds. However, the front tires occasionally struggle with 310 Newton meters of traction loss, which is a bit exasperating. The suspension, stability, and steering could use some finetuning, especially in windy conditions.
The Verdict: An Electric Fish in European Waters
In conclusion, the BYD Dolphin is a decent little electric car, boasting spacious interior and trunk space (2.70 meters wheelbase). With a length of 4.29 meters, it's one of the largest in its segment, but the 345 liters of trunk volume might be debatable. Apart from a few minor gripes, this car provides good long-distance comfort with adaptive cruise control and comfortable seats.
Priced at 32,990 euros (or more, considering the powerful version is the only one shown on the website), it's challenging to imagine the Dolphin selling for that amount in reality. The car is decent but has weaknesses, especially when compared to more mature European competitors.
On the other hand, the Dolphin Surf embodies affordability with a focus on advanced in-car technology, priced at €22,990 for the basic model[1]. While the suspension for the original Dolphin needs improvement, BYD seems to be on a steep learning curve and continuously refining its vehicles. Stay tuned to see how the Dolphin will stack up against the Surf in the future!
[1] According to PDF brochure, the basic model offers a 30 kWh battery with a range of up to 220 km (or 310 km in urban cycles), 88 hp electric motor, which isn't mentioned in the article.
- The following are the types of aid that BYD could provide to improve the customer experience: lifestyle aids such as gadgets powered by technology to enhance driving and charging convenience, cars like electric-vehicles that offer quick charging options to match refueling speed by 2030.
- The original BYD Dolphin, although more conservative in design, could benefit from an upgrade in its interior technology to match the quality of gadgets and electric-vehicles available in the European market.
- In comparison to the relatively less powered variants of the Dolphin, some electric-vehicles in the European market might offer more efficient use of technology and energy, delivering a better range in cold weather.
